National Highways trials hydrogen fuel cell to power £7 million Bootle road scheme
By Eve
National Highways and Galliford Try are using a hydrogen fuel cell generator to power the construction compound for a £7 million pedestrian crossing project at the A5036 Dunnings Bridge Road and Park Lane crossroads in Netherton, Bootle. The system has supplied electricity to three site offices, toilets, a kitchen, a drying room and two EV charging points since work began in November, with completion due by 12 June. Chief operating officer Duncan Smith described it as a pilot project that could become standard practice as the technology becomes more affordable compared to diesel generators or grid connections.
Why it matters: The trial demonstrates how hydrogen fuel cells can support EV charging infrastructure on construction sites where grid connections are unavailable or impractical. If adopted more widely by National Highways and its supply chain, the approach could create demand for mobile hydrogen generation alongside temporary EV charging installations on major road projects.